Embracing Authenticity: My First Music Show in Australia
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Chapter 1: The Journey to My First Gig
I recently completed my inaugural music performance, and it's still hard to fathom! Despite forgetting some lyrics here and there—thankfully, it went unnoticed—I feel satisfied with my overall delivery.
In the past, particularly during my time in China, I often battled nerves every time I took the stage, especially when accompanied by music. So, what allowed me to remain calm this time? After contemplating this experience, I've pinpointed a few key factors.
Section 1.1: My Purpose
Understanding My Intent
I wasn't there to compete; my goal was to share my culture and music, which is what truly draws people together.
Being True to Myself
I owe a debt of gratitude to my friends who have supported me throughout my journey. Overcoming my self-imposed limitations was no easy task. Raised in a traditional Chinese family, I often heard that I wasn't good enough, a belief rooted in the notion that harsh criticism would motivate improvement. However, this approach had the opposite effect on my self-esteem. Just a week before my performance, when my relatives criticized me, it left me feeling discouraged and uniform in my singing.
Thankfully, my friends and mentors reminded me that their opinions didn't define my worth. Everyone's voice is distinct, and I have my unique sound. Why would I want to imitate someone else? They encouraged me with words that resonated deeply:
"You are you, Qian. Remember, don’t just think—feel. Let your heart guide your singing; embrace your authentic self!"
Subsection 1.1.1: The Power of Live Accompaniment
The Freedom of Live Music
Having a pianist accompany me alleviated my concerns about matching the music, granting me the freedom to truly express my emotions through the songs. A friend commented that when he heard me perform a capella, it felt as though I poured my soul into the music. Our individuality shines through, and it’s essential to discover what works best for us.
Section 1.2: The Importance of Perception
Interestingly, I noticed some audience members with serious expressions, which led me to worry they might not enjoy my performance. However, when I later asked them, they clarified they were simply focused on appreciating the music. This highlights a crucial lesson: we should avoid jumping to conclusions about others' reactions.
Chapter 2: A Memorable Experience
The experience was enriching and marked a positive beginning for me. I was thrilled to embrace my true self even in front of an audience—like asking for water mid-performance or engaging them with spontaneous questions. Their positive feedback helped me feel at ease, and I’ll carry this lesson into my future performances.